Leaders from the Philippine higher education institutions convened at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) for the National Higher Education Day Summit (NHEDS) 2024, emphasizing the theme of “Access, Quality, and Competitiveness at the Core of Higher Education Reforms”. The event, hosted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), featured an array of distinguished speakers and activities aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders in the academic sector.

The summit commenced with an interfaith prayer led by our very own Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, President of Rizal Technological University. She was joined by Dr. Ellen E. Presnedi, President Emerita of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, and Dr. Mutti A. Asaali, President of Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College.

The Philippine Normal University (PNU) Chorale performed the CHED Hymn, setting a solemn tone for the day’s proceedings. Dr. Bert J. Tuga, President of PNU, delivered the welcome message, highlighting the summit’s importance in shaping the future of higher education in the Philippines.

Dr. Marita R. Canapi, CHED Commissioner, delivered an opening message that underscored the summit’s theme. Her remarks were followed by a series of plenary talks from prominent figures in education, such as Congressman Marquez “Mark” O. Go, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher and Technical Education in the House of Representatives, Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez, President of the University of the Philippines, and Prof. Chi-Kin John Lee, President of the Education University of Hong Kong.

A panel discussion featured a diverse group of academic leaders: Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr., Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Los Banos; Fr. Jesuraj Anthoniappen, SVD, VP for Academic Affairs at the University of San Carlos; and Dr. Alma E. Berowa, VP for Academic Affairs at Mindanao State University. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong, President of Mabalacat City College.

The program also included an art exhibit and various cultural presentations.  But one of the key highlights of the event was the message of the President of the Republic of the Philippines, His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. who delivered a special message, reiterating his administration’s commitment to enhancing the quality and accessibility of higher education in the country.

Another significant highlight of the event was the presentation titled “ULAT: The State of Higher Education in the Philippines,” delivered by Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III, CHED Chairperson. Dr. De Vera provided a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, challenges, and advancements in the Philippine higher education sector.

The summit continued with CHED officials and personnel participating in the UGNAY CHED Gala Night, a celebration of the collaborative efforts and achievements of the higher education system in the Philippines.